ASTM E112 Grain Size Testing

Using ASTM E112 as our accredited test specification, and an optical microscope, we can determine the average grain size in metallic materials such as plain carbon steels, alloy steels, stainless steels, cast irons, and titanium alloys. Grain size can be an important factor in the mechanical properties of materials, and typically a finer grain size can increase hardness and improve yield strength.

In an “as-received grain size examination”, we prepare metallographic specimens from the sample without any additional treatment. For example, an as-received grain size examination can be performed for stainless steels or carbon/alloy steels that haven’t been quenched.

In an “austenitic (oxidation) grain size” examination, we prepare carbon/alloy steel metallographic specimens from the sample by heat treating the specimens and quenching them in water. Oxidation grain size examinations are typically performed on quenched and tempered carbon/alloy steels with high carbon content. This method is necessary to bring out grains that otherwise could not be detected in the quenched condition.